श्री भगवानुवाच कालोऽस्मि लोकक्षयकृत्प्रवृद्धो लोकान्समाहर्तुमिह प्रवृत्तः। ऋतेऽपि त्वां न भविष्यन्ति सर्वे येऽवस्थिताः प्रत्यनीकेषु योधाः
Krishna refers to himself as Kala, the eternal Time-Spirit, to convey his role as the ultimate force behind the cycle of creation and destruction. By identifying with time, Krishna illustrates the inevitable nature of change and the destruction that comes with it. This highlights his divine responsibility in maintaining the cosmic order.
The vision of time confronts human limits. You can acknowledge uncertainty and still choose a responsible next action; this passage should not be used to excuse harming someone.
What responsibility remains mine even when the outcome is uncertain?
Write a private reflectionGo deeper into this verse
What is the significance of Krishna stating that the warriors must die even without Arjuna's involvement?
Krishna emphasizes that the fate of the warriors is already determined by the cosmic order he represents. This serves to relieve Arjuna of the burden of responsibility for the deaths in battle, underscoring that the outcome is beyond human control. It encourages Arjuna to act according to his duty as a warrior without attachment to the results.
How can understanding Krishna as the destroyer of worlds affect our perception of life and death?
Understanding Krishna as the destroyer of worlds can lead to a deeper acceptance of life's transient nature. It reminds us that change, including death, is an inherent part of existence governed by divine will. This perception can help cultivate a sense of detachment and peace, knowing that everything unfolds according to a higher cosmic plan.
In Chapter 11, Verse 32, what does Krishna mean when he says, 'I am out to exterminate these people'?
When Krishna says, 'I am out to exterminate these people,' he is referring to his role in the inevitable destruction of the warriors on the battlefield. This statement reflects the predetermined nature of their fate as part of the larger cosmic cycle of creation and destruction, which Krishna, as the embodiment of time, oversees.
Why does Krishna tell Arjuna that the warriors will perish even without his participation?
Krishna tells Arjuna that the warriors will perish even without his participation to illustrate the concept of predestination. It reassures Arjuna that the outcome is divinely ordained and not dependent solely on his actions. This message is meant to encourage Arjuna to fulfill his duty without attachment to the results, understanding that he is an instrument in the divine plan.
Time am I, laying desolate the world, Made manifest on earth to slay mankind! Not one of all these warriors ranged for strife Escapeth death; thou shalt alone survive.
What do “thy” and “thou” mean?
“Thy” means “your”; “thou” and “thee” mean “you”; “thine” means “yours.” This historical translation is preserved as published.